What is Rebuilding Together?
We preserve and revitalize houses and communities, assuring that low-income homeowners, particularly those who are elderly, veterans, the disabled and families with children, live in safe and healthy homes. Our goal is to make a sustainable impact in partnership with the community.
What area does the Monterey/Salinas affilate of Rebuilding Together serve?
We provide services to homes and non-profits in Carmel, Carmel by the Sea, Carmel Village, Castroville, Del Rey Oaks, Marina, Monterey, Pacific Grove, Prunedale, Salinas, Sand City, Seaside and Spreckles.
Why are Rebuilding Together services needed?
Five and a half million low-income homeowners in America are elderly, and the vast majority is women. Over one-third live alone, and 43% spend over 40% of their income on housing expenditures. Twenty-two percent of all Americans are shelter poor, meaning they cannot afford basic minimum necessities after paying housing costs. Therein lies the paradox: they have a home but cannot afford to maintain it. With volunteers eager to help, Rebuilding Together fills a desperate need, revitalizing neighborhoods as well as rehabilitating houses.
How does it work?
Rebuilding Together takes its cue from the concept of an old-fashioned barn raising with as many as 100 skilled and unskilled volunteers assigned to a particular project. Homeowners are frequently amazed at the sheer number of people who give up a day to come out and lend them a helping hand. They are even more amazed at the massive amount of work that can be accomplished by caring volunteers in a short period of time.
Who do we help?
Rebuilding Together provides assistance to people who own their own home, but who, because of physical or financial limitation, are not able to cover the costs of home repair. Typically, these individuals are disabled, elderly, veterans or families with children. Non-profit facilities such as shelters and community centers in our service area are also included. All labor and materials are free for homeowners and non-profits.
When do we work?
Months of extensive planning and preparation lead up to our semi-annual Rehab Days, which are usually in October and again in May. However, special projects are taken on at other times of the year at the discretion of the Board of Directors.
Why does it work?
Rebuilding Together does more with less. For every dollar donated, additional dollars are leveraged in the form of donated materials, funds, and services. It works because it's neighbors helping neighbors to build safer and stronger communities.
Who sponsors Rebuilding Together?
Funding comes from corporate sponsors, individuals, local businesses, cities, labor organizations, foundations, civic organizations and religious groups interested in helping to build a better community. All labor and materials are free for homeowners and non-profits.
What is the local impact of Rebuilding Together?
Since 1995, Rebuilding Together has rehabilitated 295 houses throughout the Greater Monterey/Salinas Area and 27 non-profit facilities, involving more than 4,000 volunteers. The total market value of the work done since 1995 is more than $1.7 million.
Is my contribution tax-deductible?
Yes. All contributions are tax-deductible. Contributions can be sent to: Rebuilding Together, PO Box 3323, Monterey, CA 93942. A copy of our 501(c)(3) designation will be provided for your contribution.
How can I get more information on Rebuilding Together?
Locally, contact Rebuilding Together at 831/296-0473 or write to PO Box 3323, Monterey, CA 93942.